Aiza nervously clutched her backpack strap, her heart hammering a frantic rhythm against her ribs. New school, new city, everything new. Balamban, with its vibrant energy and unfamiliar streets, felt like a world away from her sleepy mountain town.
Taking a deep breath, Aiza entered the bustling classroom. Her gaze darted around until it landed on a friendly-looking girl with bright eyes and a warm smile. Mustering her courage, Aiza approached her.
"Hi," Aiza mumbled, her voice barely a whisper.
"Hey! You must be the new student, Aiza, right?" the girl chirped, her smile widening. "I'm Klaire. Welcome to Balamban National High!"
Relief washed over Aiza. A friendly face in a sea of unknowns.
"Thanks, Klaire" Aiza replied, a hesitant smile gracing her lips.
The day progressed in a blur of introductions and awkward silences. During lunch, however, disaster struck. Aiza bit into her apple, a sharp twinge shooting through her jaw. Her hand flew to her mouth, her fingers encountering a horrifying sensation – a loose tooth!
Panic welled up within her. What if it fell out entirely? Tears pricked her eyes, threatening to spill. Klaire, sensing Aiza's distress, gently squeezed her hand.
"Hey, it's okay," Klaire soothed. "Loose teeth happen. Have you seen a dentist yet?"
Aiza shook her head, a lump forming in her throat. "Not in a while. Back home, the dentist was really far away."
Klaire's brow furrowed in concern. "Well, that wouldn't do. A healthy smile is important! You should see Dr. Blanco. She's the best dentist in town, and her clinic is just around the corner."
A spark of hope flickered within Aiza. Maybe this new city wasn't so bad after all.
